Ebony
- Africa
- Hardwood
- Very durable
Ebony generally refers to several species within the genus Diospyros, most notably African ebony (Diospyros crassiflora). It is a very dense, heavy hardwood typically jet black in colour, sometimes with dark brown streaking. The grain is fine and even, and the texture is smooth with a natural high lustre when polished. Ebony is extremely hard and durable, with excellent wear resistance and stability once seasoned, but it can be difficult to work due to its density and tendency to blunt tools. It also has a relatively high risk of checking or cracking during drying if not carefully handled.
In the timber industry, ebony is reserved primarily for high-value specialty applications where appearance, density and finish are critical. It is widely used for musical instrument components such as piano keys, fingerboards, violin fittings and woodwind instruments, as well as fine turnery, inlay work and luxury decorative items. It is also used in high-end furniture detailing and ornamental carving, though its scarcity and cost mean it is typically employed in small sections rather than large-scale construction or joinery.
Ebony – Colour Variation
Suitable for:
Decorative and inlay
Musical instruments
Sports goods
Tool components
Turnery and wood ware
